Why you need to invest in great running shoes

The first thing I look at when a client tells me that running hurts their shins or knees is their shoes.

• How old are the shoes?
• Are they really running shoes?
• How did they pick the pair they are wearing?

Usually they are wearing some 10 year old Reebok sneaker that hasn’t seen the light of day in years.

Why is it that we can spend hundreds of dollars on our hair, make-up, or dress shoes but when it comes to running shoes we rely on the sale aisle at Kohl’s?

You cannot skimp when it comes to your running shoe. This is the first point of contact between you and that pavement and you need to have a quality shoe to absorb the impact.

Did you know that while running, the impact on your feet is about 5-6 times your body weight? If your shoes are old or simply have no cushion in them, the bones in your feet have to absorb this impact. Over time, this repeated stress on your bones and joints can lead to many different injuries, primarily shin splints. Please do not let price deter you from getting quality running shoes. Your feet are worth it!

You want to go to an official running store and get fitted for a shoe. (and no, Dick’s or Modell’s is not considered an official running store!) A reputable store will watch you run (either in the store or on a treadmill) and determine what brand/type of shoe is best for your foot, based on how your foot lands when you are running. It is a science, so let a trained person determine what is right for you.

Here are a few more tips when it comes to getting your great running shoes:

• Shop later in the day for shoes because your feet will be larger and you will get a more accurate fit.
• Your new running shoes should only be used for running. Don’t wear your new running shoes to the grocery store or to the bank. Your running shoes are designed for running, nothing else.

• Even if they look brand new, shoes should be replaced after about 300 miles. The cushioning breaks down over time and therefore needs to be replaced.
• If you cannot remember the last time you replaced your shoes then you need to buy a new pair!!!

And now, just like a kid, you are excited about your new shoes so go and put them to good use!

Never underestimate the power of a workout gang!

***this post was originally posted in October 2007

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